Haifaa Al-Mansour's 'Mary Shelley' Film Released in Italy

Haifaa Al-Mansour's film 'Mary Shelley' was released in Italian cinemas on August 29, 2018, by Notorious Pictures. The film portrays Mary Wollstonecraft Godwin, author of 'Frankenstein', and her tumultuous relationship with poet Percy Bysshe Shelley. At 18, Mary defies societal prejudices against female emancipation, protects her writing, and forges her identity. The screenplay was written by Emma Jensen in collaboration with Al-Mansour. Al-Mansour, a Saudi director known for 'Wadjda' (La bicicletta verde), identifies with Mary's struggle against preconceptions. Elle Fanning stars as Mary Shelley, expressing the responsibility of portraying a woman ahead of her time. The film explores themes of emancipation, relationships, and identity, set against the backdrop of Gothic literature and scandal. Key characters include Mary's father, Claire, Lord Byron, and Polidori, each influencing her life and creativity.